Substrate?

[kegan987]

I just have a quick question about the substrate in a beardie's tank. I have heard so many different things on what to use and what not to use, and the risk of impaction, and all of these things. I was originally going to use sand, because an adult bearded dragon has less a risk of impaction than a baby, but then I changed my question - which one is the easiest to clean out? I originally thought about sand, because you just simply scoop out the 'messes' for daily cleaning, but then I thought about the weekly/monthly cleaning, when you have to completely take out the substrate to wash it; removing all the sand would be a HUGE pain. So then I considered reptile carpet, which would be much easier for the monthly/weekly cleaning, but then what about the daily cleaning? Which one works best/easiest for everyone? Thanks!

 

[traxxasboy2]

Why you shouldn't use sand: viewtopic.php?f=34&t=132151

I have reptile carpet and it is very easy to clean, daily you can wipe up the poo with a paper towel and its a breeze. Weekly or monthly you can hose it off and let it dry, very easy to use.

Another substrate you should consider is tile. very easy to clean daily and monthly as well.

 

[kegan987]

I had heard of impaction, but never any of those other reasons that I read up on from your link, so thanks a lot!! I'll be sure to NEVER use sand Now I am thinking of using the tiles; is there any problems with the cracks in-between the individual tiles? (Such as hurting the dragon's feet, or their 'messes' getting caught in the cracks?) Do they seem to get a grip on it okay? What would you recommend? Thanks!

 

[callum84]

Ceramic tile is great but make sure to get one with a bit of texture and not too smooth. They grip extremely well on it.
As for the cracks, i personally silicone my tiles down then seal the edges and gaps with silicone. Absolute godsend when it comes to hygeine and cleaning.

 

[kegan987]

That sounds great! Did you permanently cement the tiles to the bottom of the tank then, or silicone them together separate from the tank, and then place them inside? What sized tiles did you end up using? That does sound great; I think that's what I'll end up doing. Thanks for the info!

 

[callum84]

My tiles are floor tiles. 12" square I think.
I siliconed tiles directly to bottom of viv and left a very slight gap between tiles. Then filled gap with silicone and cleaned up with a wet cloth.
I contemplated fitting tiles to a removable board but decided against as wanted vivarium floor to be completely sealed for thorough clean downs.

Good luck

 

[kegan987]

Thanks! I'll try out your method tomorrow after I get the tank!